Time to consider a fixed home loan as rate-cutting cycle ends

By the resi financial blog team, 14 March 2014

Many economists expect the next direction for interest rates to be up, so it’s a good time for borrowers to consider a fixed-rate mortgage.

The number of fixed rate loans being taken out tends to increase dramatically before interest rates rise. The latest official figures show the proportion of new home-loan customers who chose a fixed rate in December was 16.8 per cent, which is above its long-term average, suggesting that many feel this is as low as fixed rates are going to go.

The main advantage of fixed rate loans is the peace of mind borrowers have in knowing what their monthly repayments will be for a set (or fixed) period of time. This helps with budgeting and planning.

The downside is that they are generally less flexible than variable loans, especially if the fixed term needs to be broken for whatever reason. Fixed rate borrowers also tend to be restricted from making additional payments.

One way around these restrictions is to choose a fixed loan that has a smaller term. The most popular fixed rate mortgages tend to be for three-year terms but a range is available.

While refinancing is a relatively simple process, borrowers should remember to compare any new fees when comparing different loans and to make sure they are satisfied a new loan will be leave them better off financially.